Gerrard finds form for World Cup push

Steven Gerrard believes he is back to his best as he looks to put a season of under-achievement at Liverpool behind him by helping England to World Cup glory.

Gerrard has again been the subject of speculation linking him with a move away from Anfield this summer because he reportedly has lost faith in manager Rafael Benitez, but Gerrard, 29, is now fully focused on trying to triumph in South Africa with Fabio Capello's side and he challenged England to prove they are good enough to win football's biggest prize.

The midfielder said: "It has been a difficult season - personally and for the Liverpool group as a whole - because we've under-achieved. But now we are here for England, it is important club issues are put to one side. My main focus is on 'can I go to the World Cup and do well for myself and England'?"

Gerrard admitted: "The good thing is my form has come back closer to where I want it to be.

"I have experienced up-and-down form during the season, suffered certain injuries, and struggled to get back the form I wanted straight away.

"At the moment I am feeling good. I finished the season quite strongly personally."

Gerrard claims England have the right blend of exciting young players and experience to pose a serious threat this summer, but he also stressed the importance of Wayne Rooney staying fit if the goals are to be realised.

Gerrard said: "What we've got here now is a fantastic mixture of players with international experience and also fresh youngsters who are very talented.

"The mix is good. The challenge now is 'can we get out on the pitch and prove to the rest of the world that we are good enough to be successful at one of these major tournaments?'.

"The World Cup is very close now and it is very important we stay strong and together. Hopefully we get a bit of luck with injuries and keep everyone available. If we can do that, we feel we've got a fantastic chance of doing well in South Africa."

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